Requires purchasers of firearms, to take and pass a basic firearm safety test and requires the firearm test administered by DEM be updated every two years, as deemed appropriate and repeals § 11-47-35.2.
Impact
If enacted, the bill is expected to have significant implications on the state’s gun control framework. By requiring an updated safety test for all firearm buyers, the bill aims to ensure that individuals are adequately knowledgeable about the safe handling and use of firearms before they are allowed to purchase them. This could result in a decrease in accidental discharges and a potential reduction in gun-related incidents stemming from lack of knowledge about safe firearm practices. However, this change may impose additional burdens on firearm purchasers who will now need to complete this test prior to purchase, which could deter some individuals from buying firearms.
Summary
House Bill 7268, introduced in January 2024, aims to enhance firearm safety regulations in Rhode Island. The bill mandates that all purchasers of firearms—including pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shotguns—must take and pass a basic firearm safety test administered by the Department of Environmental Management (DEM). This test serves to assess the buyer's understanding of firearm safety practices, and the bill requires these tests to be updated every two years to reflect current laws and best practices in gun safety. The existing option of completing a separate pistol/revolver safety course will no longer apply under this legislation, effectively unifying the safety training requirements for all firearm purchases.
Contention
The bill is likely to face both support and opposition among lawmakers and constituents. Proponents, including firearm safety advocates, are expected to argue that the bill will lead to a more responsible gun ownership culture, emphasizing public safety as a key priority. Conversely, opponents may view the additional requirements as an infringement on Second Amendment rights, arguing that they could infringe upon lawful gun ownership and complicate the purchasing process for legitimate gun owners. As the bill progresses, debates are anticipated around issues of personal freedom versus community safety.
Education: curriculum; environmental literacy task force to develop environmental literacy model curriculum and report on the curriculum; provide for. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1159.